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Hey guys, i was reading one of someone's tutorials for "hard mache" (pulp), and an idea popped in my mind (im working on a history assignment ^^), what if i was to use paper mache for my presentation? (i needed two re-enact a choreographed fight scene involving two fake swords).
I need help on wether any paper mache types is able to withstand some hits (cause we will be "fighting" dont worry its choreographed so very safe), and if the paper mache can, what materials do i need and the steps to it.
thanks so much to any help, advice, hints, tips from anyone xD
cheers
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The only thing I can think of using is sheet metal cut into a one-piece simple sword shape, and then wrapping and shaping it with papier mache.
I am thinking of something about the thickness of metal roofing material, the lighter of the gauges.
The weakest part of the sword is going to be right in front of the hilt, which is why the shaft and the hilt all need to be made from a one-piece core.
If the sword is going to be a heavy-looking one like a claymore, you could probably thicken the blade with cardboard (not corrugated).
I've never done anything like this, but I would think it would be able to take some beating with the metal core. If it didn't have the metal core, a sharp crosswise strike might break it off.
Just be aware that there will be NO FLEX to the sword, so I hope you weren't planning on make a foil.
I hope you are able to approximate what you have in mind!
Sue
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"If it didn't have the metal core, a sharp crosswise strike might break it off."
or . . if it does have a metal core, some part of the person might break off????
No, papier mache would not be suitable for sustaining or giving blows. If you consider that thin plywood or MDF would be strong enough you can, as Sue says, decorate it with paper laminate and possibly some pulp to build up structural shapes.
Never use papier mache in anger!!
DavidO
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haha sif i'd get angry with them :L
im gonna give them to the history faculty as a memento after im done with em so yeah 
ummm one question: does it matter if i use strips of newspaper, dipped in the glue/water mix, OR is it better to use the pulp style mix?
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In my experience, strips will make a stronger bond for thin projects than pulp does.
Sue
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